So how do you find people to ride with? The easiest way is to find a good bike shop, They'll know where the clubs are in town and how to contact them."

When looking for a cycling club, it's a good idea to find out how often, how far and how fast their rides are-you don't want to find yourself out of your league at the beginning of a 30-mile ride. Some clubs break up riders by speed or distance. Don't forget to ask about the terrain on each club ride, too. Will it be flat? Hilly? Rolling? If you're unsure of your ability, err on the side of caution and start with a slower group. In the meantime, work on improving your cycling fitness.

In addition to making sure you can keep up with the group, it pays to find out if you'll fit into it. Some cycling clubs are more serious than others. They run the gamut from dedicated cyclists living out Tour de France fantasies to happy-go-lucky, outdoorsy types. Some clubs ride in pacelines in matching jerseys and shorts. Others aren't thinking about the ride so much as the beer they'll have afterward. As with any kind of club, you'll enjoy the experience more if you share at least some of club's philosophy and approach to riding.

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